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Chapter Overview

Computer Cases Motherboards ROM BIOS

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The Computer Case The case helps contain electromagnetic

interference (EMI). Larger cases usually have more expansion

capability and are easier to work with. Smaller cases usually have less expansion

potential and support fewer internal devices.

Cases with more features cost more. You should never run a computer with an

open case.

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Working with Cases

Desktop Tower

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The Motherboard

Before replacing a motherboard, double-check all other components to verify that the motherboard is the problem.

Replace rather than repair a damaged motherboard.

Consider purchase and interoperability issues.

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Chip Sets The chip set helps the CPU manage and

control the computer. The CPU must be compatible with the

chip set. Specialized chips control cache memory

and high-speed buses. Different chip sets have different on-

board components. On-board components might have fewer

features than do expansion card versions.

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ROM BIOS Chips Read-only memory (ROM) chips store

basic input/output system (BIOS) data—even when the computer power is off.

The system BIOS prepares the hardware to run.

Classes of BIOS chips include: Core chips Updateable complementary metal-oxide

semiconductor (CMOS) chips Other chips with their own BIOS data

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Information Stored in the CMOS

Floppy disk and hard disk drive types CPU type and speed Random access memory (RAM) size Date and time Serial and parallel port information Plug and Play information Power-saving settings

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Updating CMOS

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Determining the BIOS Manufacturer

Watch the monitor when the computer boots.

Check the computer or motherboard manual.

Remove the computer cover and look at the chip.

Use a third-party utility program. Cause an error that will launch the setup

program.

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The Most Common Ways to Access BIOS Setup Programs

AMI: Press Delete when the machine begins to boot.

Phoenix: Press Ctrl+Alt+Esc, Delete, or F2 when requested.

Award: Follow the procedure for AMI or Phoenix.

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Main BIOS Screen

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Setup Screen for Hard Disk Drive

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Advanced Tab

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Security Tab

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Power Tab

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Maintaining CMOS

CMOS data can be lost for several reasons.

You should write down CMOS setup information or back it up.

Plug and Play devices include their own BIOS information.

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The CMOS Battery

Look for battery requirements on the motherboard or in the documentation.

Expect 2–7 years of battery life, depending on the type of battery.

Watch for battery failure indicators. Replace the battery if a computer loses

stored CMOS information more than once in a week.

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All Other Chips

Add-on boards may have ROM chips with their own BIOS data.

Device drivers could be required to provide BIOS support for hardware.

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Power-On Self Test The power-on self test (POST) checks

every primary device at startup. Beep codes indicate problems before

and during the video test. Errors displayed on the screen typically

indicate problems after the video test. Errors can be fatal or nonfatal. POST cards display codes that you can

decode from the manufacturer’s manual.

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Chapter Summary You should select a computer case for ease of use

and expandability. EMI can harm surrounding equipment. Motherboards use different chip sets with differing

capabilities. ROM BIOS chips can be static or updateable. A CMOS program accesses BIOS information

stored in CMOS chips. If you change hardware, you must update the

CMOS to reflect changes. A CMOS battery ensures that CMOS information is

saved.